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Is vertigo caused by a magnesium deficiency?

Ask the doctors

Q.I suffer from vertigo and have heard that taking a magnesium supplement might help. Is that true? If so, how much should I take?

A. Vertigo can be caused by almost anything that interferes with the normal function of the inner ear, which is instrumental in preserving balance. The most common form of vertigo — benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) — results when tiny calcium carbonate crystals migrate from one part of the inner ear to the semicircular canal in another part of the ear, triggering a false message to the brain about the direction in which the head is moving and the speed of its motion. Dizziness is a result of the brain's attempt to resolve the conflicting messages from the ear and the other senses.

Daily Health Tip

Exercise to boost mood

Feeling depressed? Step away from it and do something else. Try a medium- to high-intensity workout like a brisk 30-minute walk, an aerobics class, or a game of tennis. The more friends you invite, the better. Focusing on others helps prevent self-defeating thoughts.